Who is Najee Harris’ handcuff? With the Pittsburgh Steelers being one of the few true bellcow franchises in the NFL, the team’s backup running back is an injury away from a high-volume role. Of course, that doesn’t always translate to success. Click here for more fantasy football from The Touchback.
Najee Harris’ most likely handcuff is Jaylen Warren. And, at this point, the gap between starter and backup is razor-thin. The undrafted rookie out of Oklahoma State has impressed anytime he’s been on the field. The same can’t be said for Harris.
Behind those two is Anthony McFarland Jr. You have probably heard people hyping him up at various points over the past two years but he hasn’t delivered the goods. In fact, the Maryland product was a healthy scratch on several occasions over the past two seasons.
Related: All you need to know about fantasy football handcuffs
Is Najee Harris’ handcuff worth stashing?
Najee Harris’ handcuff is definitely worth stashing. Not even in 16-team leagues. While the Steelers’ coaching staff has continually said he’s the starter, it is hard to ignore everything Warren has done since signing with the team. The former first round pick surely has to be on a short leash to enter this season.
That gives Warren more upside than a traditional handcuff. He isn’t simply waiting for an injury or suspension. There is a path to playing time based on how Harris performs. And given what we have seen of the two in recent times, you have to like the backup’s chances to take over as lead back.
Beyond those two, people will try to talk you into McFarland, but Pittsburgh’s coaching staff does not have any faith in him. It doesn’t really make sense to burn a roster spot with that being the case. He isn’t even a worthwhile dynasty hold at the moment.
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